Scientific and clinical aspects of the use of cidofovir in recurrent respiratory papillomatosis

SummaryObjectiveCidofovir is the most contemporary adjuvant treatment for recurrent respiratory papillomatosis (RRP) and its use is increasing. Cidofovir is potentially harmful. Otolaryngologists should understand the science of cidofovir and review the current published data on the effects of this therapy.MethodPubmed was searched using the terms cidofovir and papillomatosis. Comparisons were made between published articles.ResultsThirteen articles were identified between 1998 and 2006, representing the treatment of 142 patients. Cidofovir did result in a significant improvement of papillomatous lesions in the majority (60%) of patients despite the use of different regimes of cidofovir administration. There was no unifying protocol in use. A partial response was demonstrated in 29% of patients. 7.5% had no response however, an additional 3.5% patients were lost to follow-up. No malignant change was reported.ConclusionCidofovir does appear to be effective in improving the outcome of patients with RRP. There are no reports of malignant transformation despite concerns raised by toxicology studies.